Concord, NH – As Drinking Water Week continues, the N.H. Department of Environmental Services (NHDES), American Water Works Association (AWWA), and AWWA’s members urge students and job seekers to consider careers in the water sector.

In a recent online article, “10 Jobs Americans Can’t Live Without,” Reader’s Digest states that water and wastewater jobs are among the most important positions to maintain our high quality of life. Americans rely on safe, sustainable water supplies for everything from hydration to fire protection to public health and sanitation, and water career opportunities exist in every state for almost every skill set.

Many water and wastewater professionals are nearing retirement, and the water community will be looking to refill their ranks. Workforce shortages are projected for treatment plant operators, distribution system mechanics, engineers, scientists and many other positions from throughout the water sector.

“The water community offers careers that are both central to public health and the environment, and are personally and professionally rewarding,” said AWWA Executive Director David LaFrance. “Plus, it’s an ideal time to become part of the water workforce. There are excellent opportunities available almost everywhere, while serving both your community and the environment.”

Sarah Pillsbury, Administrator of the Drinking Water and Groundwater Bureau at NHDES, added, “In New Hampshire, water services and water resources are particularly important to our quality of life and to our economy. And water systems in New Hampshire are no exception to what’s happening across the country; senior operators and managers are already retiring at a high rate, and water systems need qualified people.”

To help meet the growing need, AWWA and the Water Environment Federation have partnered on a “Work for Water” web site (www.workforwater.org/) to showcase the many water-related opportunities for individuals looking for new career opportunities. The site includes links to job postings, information on necessary skills, training programs, testimonials from individuals currently working in the water community and resources for water professionals.

About Drinking Water Week
For more than 35 years, the American Water Works Association and its members have celebrated Drinking Water Week – a unique opportunity for both water professionals and the communities they serve to join together to recognize the vital role water plays in our daily lives.